Come to the Sacramento Zoo’s California Celebration Saturday, May 7th from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Celebrate California’s diversity, culture and wildlife through art, museums, cultural organizations and performers throughout the Zoo. Face painting, free children’s crafts with Zoo teens and ed-zoo-cation stations staffed by Docent volunteers all promise to make this a day of great family fun!

Participants will include the Jinan, China-Sacramento Sister Cities Corporation, Camellia City Porcelain Artists, Education First and individual local artists whose art embodies California nature and animals. Darby Patterson, creator of the Zoo’s Orangutan busts and penguin sculpture will have some of her more current works available for visitors to view. Special guest Fred Krakowiak, artist and author, will be creating a “dye on silk” painting onsite. Also, take a self–guided tour of the art displayed throughout Zoo grounds. The Zoo is a proud host to many pieces by local artists such as: Terrence Martin of Jagged Edge Metal Art and Trent Meyer.

New this year is the Gallery Artisans Tour, a group of locally renowned artists who create everything from custom art and home décor, to jewelry and accessories that are “art to wear.” A few of these artists include: Jazzy Jewelz by Nancy, Tiptoe Art Studio, That Crafty Lady, Sally White Photography, Patricia Williams Art, Classy Glass, Marcia Munich, Richard Vierra, Jacqueline Blondeau, and GaGa Girl Accessories. The Gallery Artisans will also be raffling off hand–picked pieces of art to raise funds for the Zoo.

Throughout the day, cultural performances and interactive activities take place on the Reptile House Lawn. Visitors of all ages will have a chance to learn how to hula from the Kaulumele Polynesian Dance Troupe and to enjoy some moves from local Kung-Fu Master, Janny Wu. Also performing will be Balliamo! Traditional Italian Dance Troupe and the Irish American Cēili Dancers.

Learn about California native animals and other species at the Zoo P.I. Critter Caper at 11am and the Wildlife Stage Show at 1:30p.m. on the amphitheater stage. Be sure to stick around afterwards to meet the animal actors up close and personal. Afternoon Keeper Chats at 2:15, 2:30 and 2:45 p.m. take place at the Kookabura, Tawny frogmouth, and Kangaroo exhibits.

Sacramento Zoo -- Wildly Inspiring!

Open since 1927, the Sacramento Zoo is home to over 450 native, rare and endangered animals and is one of over 200 accredited institutions of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Located near the corner of Land Park Drive and Sutterville Road in William Land Park, the Zoo is wholly managed by the non-profit Sacramento Zoological Society. This Sacramento treasure inspires conservation awareness through education and recreation. Open daily from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, general admission is $11.00; children ages 2-11 are $7.00 and one and under are admitted free. Parking is free throughout the park or ride Regional Transit bus #6. For information, call 916-808-5888 or visit saczoo.org.